If you haven’t put Prototype This! onto your Tivo account yet, do it. In one of their latest episodes, some of the team try out tracking body movement using camera recognition of symbols instead of that silly looking Gollum suit we’re so familiar with.

The amazing thing about this is not only is the technology and software needed very simple compared to a lot of motion capture tech today, but if programmed right it could track you by your clothing. And while currently you might need to wear a suit covered in patterns the computer is already programmed to follow (maybe a Tron Guy suit?), eventually it could detect places on our bodies and use them as markers. That mole on your arm? Plaid pajama bottoms? Earring? All will help identify your position and aid in tracking your movement.

This could be a big deal for the gaming and cellphone industry.

For gaming, you wouldn’t need to hold wands in your hand to track movement, but instead have an actual replica of a gun in your hands for better control. The computer could be programmed to realize when your left foot stepped forward you were running while stepping it back means you’re back-pedaling. This way you won’t need to buy a moving treadmill to play future games.

The cellphone industry could use it for better control of their interactive screens. Where as before you needed to touch the screen to flip around or expand what you’re currently looking at, the waving of your hand could accomplish the same thing as long as the built-in camera was aimed at you. You could have your own mini Minority Report interface (imagine the types of skins you could make, amazing).

Truly an amazing technology that has only begun to scratch the surface. Expect to see it blow up over the next two to three years.